April in South Africa is the time to prepare for one’s winter crops. As they days start to shorten and the cooler autumn temperatures kick in, expect significantly less rain in the summer rainfall regions and potentially some early winter rains in winter rainfall areas.Plant out your fall and winter crops in April for an abundant winter garden.

If you live in a cooler part of the country, part carrots, kale, lettuce, broccoli and onions early on in the month.In more moderate temperature areas plant beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cress endive, kale, leek, lettuce, mustard, onions, parsnips, peas, potatoes, spinach, and turnips during April.

If you’re looking to rest and rejuvenate a part of your vegetable garden over winter, plant cover crops like clover, vetch and legumes that add nitrogen to your soil.